Welcome to this inaugural issue of RE:GENERATION, our new magazine exploring the evolving world of demolition.
Articles, features and profiles for next generation demolition RE:GENERATION 3.0 Issue
The greenest building is the one that is already built.
Enabling the future
Re:Generation Edition 03
Navigating
sustainable practice
As the year progresses, one thing has become clear: there is a preference from the sector to build and indeed rebuild with the environment in mind.
Contents Navigating sustainable practice Foreword by George Stainton 03
The factor? Sustainability.
New more environmentally stringent Building Regulations, a noticeable hesitancy by urban planning authorities to sanction full demolitions, and a trend towards upgrading commercial property to Grade A energy efficiency are but three chapters of the industry’s new and formidable green story. As you can read in this issue, a recent survey by consultancy Gleeds on the UK’s commercial property market confirms this new preference for renovation/upgrade over demolition/ new build. The circular economy, waste reduction, energy efficiency and lowering the industry’s annual carbon footprint are now increasingly influencing investment and operational decisions. You’d have thought that providing demolition services in a country with a sudden aversion to knocking things down could pose a problem in our sector. But not for General Demolition, where the proportion of strip-out work we do continue to expand. In fact, we have won some landmark strip out contracts in recent months, not least the technically challenging Black Swan in Northampton.
Minimum EPC Rating
Full enforcement of the minimum EPC rating of “E” was activated in October 2024, but is the industry prepared? A Carter Jonas report finds 23% of UK office buildings have an EPC rating below “E”, meaning there are more than just one or two renovations needed. With 55% of the UK’s office stock being over 30 years old, it’s likely that renovation rather than demolition might just be the answer to energy-efficient upgrades. To put it simply: huge changes are needed in the world of construction in order to meet Net Zero commitments in time for the fast-approaching 2030. Now is the time to adopt solutions and innovations that enable the necessary reduction of embodied carbon in densely developed megacities, laying sustainable foundations that will last for years to come. As a business we actively embrace this new greener trend and want to be at the forefront of it.
Black Swan Setting the standard with Zero waste Shaping the commercial property market in 2025
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Quite the case on Chancery Lane
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Tom Ogden Precision in Demolition Demolition throwback: Crystal Palace
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At General Demolition our readiness to adapt and innovate will define our success in this new greener era.
Demolition Just cut the carbon
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Safety: Two heads are better than one
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Circular economy in action, as seen at Footprint+ 2025 A Discussion with Nick Grigoras
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GD’s partnership with Saint Gobain
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5 Reasons Why construction should switch to electric
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Charlotte Naish Pivotal role in GD growth
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Demolition throwback: Midland Bank / Bank vault at the Ned
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George Stainton Managing Director
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Re:Generation Edition 03
Digital systems to support circularity
Reimagining what’s possible While Black Swan achieved outstanding results, both Daniel and Riaan are clear that the outcomes were made possible by careful planning and client alignment. The Black Swan project demonstrates how reuse-first demolition is possible and practical, even in large, complex buildings with bespoke systems. By combining digital platforms with deep technical knowledge and local engagement, General Demolition turned what could have been a standard warehouse strip-out into a blueprint for circular deconstruction. “I’m especially proud of how much the GD team preserved for reuse without damage,” Riaan reflects. “This project stands out as a landmark in reuse, with Reusefully’s audit confirming we achieved an 80% reuse rate. That outcome is a direct result of the team’s precision in dismantling, salvaging, and palletising materials. Without that level of care, we couldn’t have given so much a second life.”
Alongside technical execution, the project was underpinned by detailed planning and digital asset tracking. During pre-demolition or refurbishment audits, it’s essential to consider what materials have the potential for reuse. On each project, I keep a record of materials identified for recovery and upload data on reusable assets to an online platform, triggering real-time notifications to our reuse partner network and streamlining material tracking and redeployment,” shares Daniel Leung, who oversaw reuse coordination across the site. The platform in question, Material Index, enabled faster matchmaking with reuse buyers, including for materials such as racking and steel purlins. In total, 73.1 tonnes of racking were recovered for reuse The Black Swan soft-strip required a high level of precision and care due to the nature of the materials and reuse goals. To preserve value and maintain traceability, the team meticulously categorised and stored each item on- site. “Boards had to be unscrewed, steel unbolted, bolts counted, and pathways cleared for storage areas. It changed the flow of logistics on- site completely,” explains Riaan. This precision and attention to detail delivered powerful results, including:
Reusefully’s audit confirmed that over 80% of salvaged materials were reused - a standout result given the project’s scale, bespoke design, and material variety. It marks one of General Demolition’s highest verified reuse rates to date.
General Demolition sets new standard with zero waste at Black Swan
Materials salvaged and reused included:
Steel purlins and structural components from the mezzanine Edge protection and staircases, sold as modular parts High-level LED lighting, retained for future use in driver and welfare facilities Carpet tiles, distributed to various end users Toilets, mirrors and sinks collected by end user Sprinklers and dock levellers reused on site Ceiling tiles and suspended grid systems removed and stacked for reuse
In Northampton, General Demolition has delivered a project that serves as a prime example of how sustainable deconstruction can deliver lasting environmental value.
The soft-strip of the Black Swan warehouse and distribution centre diverted 100% of materials from landfill and pioneered circular strategies that transformed complex, bespoke structures into valuable reusable resources. Commissioned by Aviva Life & Pensions UK and delivered in collaboration with Spring BC and Leslie Clark, the project involved the internal strip-out of: 154,603 sq.ft of warehouse space and 31,474 sq.ft of adjoining office space
Works began in January 2025 and concluded in April 2025. From the outset, General Demolition were committed to going beyond standard soft-strip practices by prioritising reuse. Leveraging decades of technical expertise and a forward-thinking approach, the team used strategies like modular dismantling, digital asset tracking, and local reuse partnerships to deliver Black Swan to the highest sustainable standard. A bespoke solution to a bespoke mezzanine Among the project’s most complex challenges was a three-storey mezzanine structure spanning much of the warehouse. Constructed with chipboard flooring, steel framing, and integrated racking, the structure had been custom designed for The White Company’s operations, making it unique and complex to repurpose.
“There’s a strong market for standard, single-level mezzanines, but this was a bespoke, three-storey design, and that complexity significantly limited initial interest from reuse buyers,” explains Riaan Taljaard, Operations Manager at General Demolition. Recognising the potential for material reuse despite these constraints, the team carefully dismantled the structure down into components and pursued reuse pathways for each element. “To ensure valuable materials were repurposed, the mezzanine had to be segregated: staircases were unbolted and sold individually, edge protection removed and resold, secondary purlins repurposed for racking systems, and timber flooring salvaged intact wherever possible. Ultimately, we were able to reuse almost the entirety of the structure.”
Working with reuse specialist Reusefully, the team ensured pre-demolition audits aligned with actual salvage outcomes, enabling meaningful verification and environmental reporting. The project team also worked closely with local charities such as Northampton Hope Centre, and community organisations, inviting them on-site to review available materials and claim what could be repurposed.
Volume of material in Tonnes
631 Total CO 2 savings
345 Steel beams and columns
Timber Flooring Boards
Racking
Purlins 85
60 136
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Re:Generation Edition 03
Shaping the commercial property market in 2025
Cutting embodied carbon The urgency to reduce embodied carbon emissions in commercial offices is underscored by projections indicating a shift of emissions to embodied carbon by 2035. Standardised measurement tools, such as the RICS’ Whole Life Carbon Accounting Standard (WLCA), offer a transparent approach to measuring both embodied and operational carbon, facilitating compliance with regulatory and client demands. Early engagement and collaboration among stakeholders are essential to embed sustainability from the inception stage through construction to occupation. The Gleeds report found that developers are increasingly committed to constructing best-in-class offices with superior sustainability credentials. The Ev0 building at Didsbury Technology Park is a good example of this, aiming as it does to be the UK’s lowest carbon new build office development by extensively utilising sustainable timber and low carbon concrete. Ev0 not only meets but exceeds the Royal Institute of British Architects’ (RIBA) 2025 target for whole life carbon, setting a precedent for future sustainable developments.
Risks and opportunities
Inflation and interest rates pose challenges for investment volumes, yet lower valuations present opportunities for value-add investors seeking assets with growth potential. Prime offices, in particular, are experiencing a shortage in supply, driving rental growth and attracting a diverse range of investors. However, sound investment strategies are imperative to mitigate the risk of stranded assets and navigate potential lender interventions.
Amid the uncertainty of a flatlining UK economy, a recent Gleeds survey delves into the dynamics driving the UK’s commercial property market, shedding light on its prospects, opportunities, and challenges.
Sustainability shaping investment decisions
As part of a sector-wide survey of the UK construction industry, leading consultancy Gleeds focused on the prospects and challenges that the commercial sector had been facing in 2024, and is likely to continue navigating in 2025. Its findings revealed that strip-out and refurbishment emerges as a dominant trend, with over half of the respondents noting a preference for retrofitting existing spaces over new builds.
In 2024, planning approvals for commercial office projects have surged, indicating a promising pipeline of work for the year ahead. Deloitte’s Winter London Office Crane Survey underscores this trend, with refurb projects underway across millions of square feet of office space. Sustainability considerations have also been increasingly driving investment decisions, with investors targeting properties with low environmental ratings for value creation through sustainability upgrades.
However, the looming Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) Regulations pose a significant challenge, necessitating a holistic approach to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategies across a property’s lifecycle to avoid devaluation.
The findings of the Gleeds survey offer valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the UK’s commercial property market in 2024, as well as trend predictions for 2025. Despite economic uncertainties, sustainability remains a driving force shaping investment decisions and property development. By embracing innovation, collaboration, and forward- thinking strategies, stakeholders can navigate the challenges and capitalise on the opportunities presented in this dynamic environment.
Dominant Trends in UK Construction Industry
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Editors note: To read the full report visit www.gleeds.com and search ‘UK construction market report.’
Re:Generation Edition 01
Feature Project
RECYCLING RATE 98% recyclability rate achieved.
Pre-assessed as BREEAM Excellent
Courtesy of LS Estates website
Quite the case
Scope of works included
Only after the internal demolition phase commenced, the careful deconstruction of the roof began. The glass atrium, preserved until the final stages, was carefully dismantled to minimise waste and maximise material recovery. It took the team a total of 13 weeks, as they employed a combination of mechanical and manual techniques to reduce the environmental impact of the process. The sizable plant at roof level was craned off, while an internal goods hoist, installed in the atrium, ensured energy-efficient material handling throughout.
on Chancery Lane
Photographic condition, building services, asbestos and CCTV drainage surveys BREEAM audit Isolations and installation of temporary supplies Bespoke perimeter and oversail scaffold Notifiable asbestos works Large MEP package of works Internal strip out Demolition of roof and glass atrium Cut and carve demolition Temporary works and structural propping Removal of four lifts Decommissioning and removal of plant Opening up works and intrusive structural investigations Extensive interface with City of London
Situated in the heart of legal London, 5 Chancery Lane dates back to 1910. A £200m redevelopment - targeting an 86% retention and reuse rate - will transform the building and provide close to 106,000sqft of sustainable Grade A office space. General Demolition undertook extensive demolition and enabling works for the initial phase of the redevelopment which is set to culminate in Q1 2026. In line with this impressive rating, General Demolition’s strong focus on responsible demolition and its commitment to driving the circular economy made for an ideal fit. Reuse was central to our programme - from the retention of Portland stone at roof level and the salvage of parts of the façade, to the windows at first floor which were carefully removed and stored for later reintegration.
Client / Consultant LS Estates / G&T
Cut and carve demolition
While mechanical demolition - including the use of breakers - was employed on site, much of our programme was executed by hand. At times intricate and painstaking, the GD team was committed to salvaging usable materials for reuse on-site or repurposing for future projects. After all, you don’t see archaeologists using heavy machinery to uncover history, and our team members approach every project with the same level of care and attention to detail, facilitating sustainable practices that allow valuable resources to be preserved for future use.
Programme: 47 weeks
Value: £2.1m
The Project
Cut and carve demolition Propping of central atrium Removal of 4 lift cars and bays Hot works at roof and sub basement levels Works at 5 Chancery Lane spanned all six storeys above ground, at roof level, as well as in the basement and two sub-basements. Logistics, permits and licences all needed to be approved and obtained through the City of London Council before boots hit the ground. Once on site, the pace didn’t let up. A sizeable perimeter scaffold was erected and wrapped in acoustic monoflex to mitigate against noise and debris before strip out works commenced.
PROJECT HIGHLIGHT
Portland stone reuse
As part of the project, General Demolition carefully dismantled/ deconstructed 30 tonnes of Portland stone from the façade of the building. Being naturally sourced, Portland stone is one of the most eco- friendly and low-carbon building materials available in Britain, known for its minimal carbon footprint and sustainable extraction processes. Not to mention it has exceptional durability and is able to withstand weathering and environmental conditions for centuries, making it perfect for reuse. To facilitate reuse, the Portland stone taken from the facade of the building was expertly removed then protected, categorised and palletised at a later date, carefully stored for reinstallation back on 5 Chancery Lane.
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Project highlights 15,000 carpet tiles redirected for resale, giving them new life in other projects. 850 acoustic ceiling pads reused with SAS International and 3.5 tonnes of metal ceiling panels sent for recycling. 29 toilets and 17 wall-mounted urinals salvaged and made available for resale.
Re:Generation Edition 03
Circular economy in action: Reclaiming 600 tonnes of material from 40 Argyll Street
Tom Ogden: Precision in demolition
General Demolition’s sustainable approach at 40 Argyll Street transformed waste into resources, reclaiming 600 tonnes of materials for reuse. Demolition is more than just the careful and expertly executed process of dismantling structures – it’s also about uncovering and reusing valuable materials. At 40 Argyll Street, General Demolition recently converted a former Apple technology premises into a reuse showcase, demonstrating how sustainable demolition can recover resources that would otherwise go to waste. With nearly half of the UK’s waste generated by the construction industry, purposeful projects like this are essential for reducing the sector’s environmental impact.
Material Index identified approximately 600 tonnes of reusable items, including carpet tiles, ceiling panels, toilets, and urinals, which were then catalogued for resale or recycling. The partnership allowed a significant volume of materials to be diverted from the waste stream and offered a source of sustainable resources for other construction projects. Through careful planning and a proactive partnership, General Demolition’s efforts yielded substantial environmental benefits:
“The past 12 to 18 months have seen a surge in demand for reuse, driven by both new regulations and changing consumer behaviours,” said Morgan Lewis, CEO of Material Index. Early intervention is paramount to the success of material reuse. Material Index was brought in during the audit stage, allowing General Demolition to carefully deconstruct the building and protect valuable materials. This approach meant that items were matched with eager buyers, supporting the growing demand for reused materials across industries. Projects like 40 Argyll Street underscore General Demolition’s commitment to sustainability and highlights how it is leading the necessary change towards a circular economy in construction and demolition.
Tom Ogden, Operations Director at General Demolition, stands out for his systematic approach and foresight.
Over 15 years, Tom’s career progression from hands-on roles to leadership has been marked by an expanding understanding of the sector’s complexities and a commitment to environmental responsibility. Throughout his journey, Tom’s commitment to continuous learning and development has been evident. Starting as a graduate student, he quickly assumed project management responsibilities, showcasing his aptitude and dedication to his work. His hands-on experience, dating back to his teenage years working on boatyards, has instilled in him a strong foundation in construction and demolition, further augmented by his engineering degree.
Amount / Units Carbon saving
15,100 850 77 22,000
31.3T
Carpet Tiles
3.23T 2T 182.5T
Acoustic Ceiling Pads
To maximise material reuse, General Demolition collaborated with Material Index, a company that specialises in sustainable material reuse at scale.
Toilet component units
RAF Tiles
219T
Total in Tonnes
It’s okay to not be okay: boosting mental health support in construction
A friend in need
Employee mental health should be a priority in every sector, but with workers in construction suffering disproportionately, Mates in Mind is committed to improving employee well-being in the sector through targeted support. While a career in construction can be dynamic and rewarding, it can also come with pressures – not least job insecurity and financial and emotional stress. Quite apart from the physical demands a life in construction can present, the sector is working hard to make employee mental health a priority. At the forefront of this is Mates in Mind, a UK charity that is driving positive change in the sector through tailored support and innovative programmes.
“It is essential that colleagues in construction can have open discussions and are encouraged to have that conversation in the first place”. General Demolition – breaking down the stigma of mental health General Demolition’s Director George Stainton explains: “We fully support the work of Mates in Mind and are actively driving a shift in our workplace culture that prioritises the mental health of everyone we work with. “Our employees feel more supported and empowered to talk about their concerns, which we hope enhances their well- being and – from a business perspective – our overall productivity. Mates In Mind is helping to create a safer, more inclusive environment where mental health is prioritised and openly discussed.”
Tom’s primary role at General Demolition is overseeing business processes to maximise long-term profitability. Additionally, he ensures compliance with environmental standards and best practices, leading initiatives for waste reduction and recycling. Despite having only worked for GD a short while, Tom quickly earned the title of Operations Director, a testament to his leadership skills and knowledge. His responsibilities include leadership and management of all business operational activities, from overseeing project activities spanning pre-construction to post- completion to assisting project teams in resolving intricate logistically hard engineering challenges. In London’s tightly regulated urban demolition landscape, Tom’s effective communication and strategic foresight stand out, enabling him to navigate challenges and exceed client expectations.
Optimistic about the positive impact that advances in technology can offer, Tom sees significant potential for making demolition more sustainable. His openness to change and new ways of working signifies a drive towards aligning industry practices with environmental and client needs more effectively. Tom articulates a vision for the industry: “Setting a precedent for innovation and environmental care is our aim.” This reflects a holistic approach, considering the entire material lifecycle to minimise impact. By championing eco-conscious leadership, Tom’s influence extends beyond achieving project goals, helping to guide General Demolition and the industry towards a more sustainable future.
Hoping to demolish any stigma associated with discussing mental health in the work environment, Mates in Mind encourages employers to implement specialised training processes and embed mental health measures into their processes and systems – ensuring the talk is walked on site. The charity works with bodies like the National Suicide Prevention Advisory Group to advocate for mental health policies, compiling data to encourage government agencies to adopt proactive mental health initiatives. Samantha Downie, Managing Director of Mates in Mind emphasises the importance of communication in construction:
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Echoes in modern memory In modern times, the Crystal Palace is remembered as a testament to an era characterised by relentless progress and a profound dedication to the stewardship of cultural treasures. The saga of the Crystal Palace, from its dazzling debut to its poignant finale, narrates a captivating tale of human creativity, the transformative power of cultural endeavours, and the obligation to protect our historical legacies for the enlightenment of future generations.
In the wake of the disaster, there were fortunately no reported fatalities, a testament to the emergency responses of the time. Authorities launched an inquiry to dissect the causes and learn from the event. It highlighted the need for improved safety measures and emergency preparedness in public buildings. Public and media reactions were a mix of shock and mourning. The Times, in the days following the fire, reflected the nation’s grief and bewilderment at the loss of such a significant symbol of Victorian achievement and progress. The paper, along with other publications, published editorials lamenting the destruction of the Crystal Palace and reminiscing about its historical significance, from its inception for the Great Exhibition of 1851 to its role as a cultural and educational landmark.
Efforts to save the Palace during the fire were monumental, yet ultimately futile. The London Fire Brigade fought tirelessly against the blaze, but the fire’s intensity and scale made their valiant attempts ineffective. In just a few hours, the entire Palace was reduced to ruins, all except for two towers and part of the north end of the main nave, which was too damaged to restore. To protect nearby homes, Thos. W. Ward Ltd. of Sheffield dismantled the south tower soon after the fire. However, the north tower stood until 1941, when it was finally demolished with explosives – possibly to eliminate a landmark for German aircrafts during WWII, though no official reason was given. There were discussions and proposals aimed at rebuilding the Palace. However, the advent of World War II and ensuing economic hardships indefinitely delayed these aspirations.
Demolition throwback: The Crystal Palace
Feature Project
From its creation for the Great Exhibition of 1851 to its untimely demise in 1936, the Crystal Palace embodied the pinnacle of Victorian engineering and cultural exchange.
Conceived as the centrepiece of the Great Exhibition of 1851, it was the brainchild of Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert, and the visionary Sir Joseph Paxton. Paxton designed the building, and it was constructed by Fox, Henderson & Co., a company renowned for its work in iron structure buildings. The construction was a marvel of the age, taking just five months to complete, thanks to the unprecedented use of prefabricated parts. Spanning over 19 acres, the Palace used more than 293,000 panes of glass, and approximately 33,000 individual iron elements held together by over a million rivets. The workforce was diverse, reflecting the societal composition of the time. The building drew widespread acclaim, including positive coverage in The Times for its architectural audacity and the vast array of exhibits it housed.
The structure symbolised the era’s technological innovations and played host to a kaleidoscope of exhibitions that ranged from Industrial Revolution technologies to representations of the vast cultural diversity within the British Empire. These showcases offered Victorian society an unmatched window into the scientific, artistic, and industrial advancements of the time, reflecting the era’s insatiable appetite for progress and enlightenment. The final blaze and its aftermath The narrative of the Crystal Palace took a melancholic twist with its engulfment in flames on the night of November 30, 1936, a poignant event that underscored the vulnerability of cultural landmarks. Despite being constructed predominantly of glass and iron, materials not ordinarily susceptible to fire, the Palace housed numerous combustible materials. Wooden flooring, paneling, and various exhibits crafted from flammable substances contributed to the fire’s rapid escalation. The architectural design, celebrated for its airy and open interior, inadvertently facilitated the spread of smoke and flames.
Courtesy of M1
Levelling up
Client / Consultant Padrock / Lysander/ Glenny
Programme: 22 weeks Value: £750k
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The Crystal Palace was—literally and figuratively—a towering example of the Victorian era’s vaulting architectural optimism and ambition.”
Caxton Hill
What to do with a 90% vacant 1940s industrial estate on Hertford’s Caxton Hill. Once a hive of activity, the almost derelict estate was in desperate need of a new lease of life. An approved scheme for modern industrial units was set to bring job creation and regeneration to this area, but first General Demolition was asked to level the site before it was built back up, ensuring it meets the demand of 21st century work environments.
Making room for growth
35 units set across the sprawling 12-acre site were to be demolished ahead of a new development of Grade A logistics and storage facilities – a welcome addition to this prime commuter corner of the South-East. General Demolition spent five months razing the structures to the ground and preparing the site for the new scheme.
Get in touch for the full case study. Email: enquiries@general-demolition.co.uk
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No one really likes having their worked checked. But when it comes to ensuring the highest levels of safety you can never have enough people ensuring that all is going smoothly. That’s the role of independent safety auditors – and General Demolition actively embraces their input. Safety: two heads are better than one
DEMOLITION
Just cut the carbon Construction and its ultimate corollary – demolition – makes up 13% of the world’s economy, but is trailing badly when it comes to pulling its weight on averting climate change. The impacts of climate change are increasingly evident, as is the pressure to meet global emissions targets. Decarbonisation has quickly become an urgent priority in the construction sector as, especially when combined with other initiatives, it has the scope to help significantly reduce carbon footprints.
Let’s face it, demolition and dismanteling is the arena where precision meets precaution, and where the difference between safe and sorry can be monumental. That’s why the industry demands not just high, but sky-high levels of safety. Even before prioritising the demolition and strip out of structures, GD ranks safety above all else, stamping its mark (carefully, of course) as a benchmark industry leader. The commitment to safety is ingrained in the company’s DNA. ”Safety isn’t just a box to tick for us; it’s the heart of our operation,” says Tom Ogden - Operations Director.
External assurance
CDM regulations: The backbone of safety
Project owners and clients also have invested interest when it comes to ensuring that operations run smoothly and safely. They want to protect all those involved – and their own reputations – from hazard, and reassure themselves and any interested third party that safety isn’t being compromised. This is where independent safety auditors come into play, bringing an unbiased perspective and acting as a crucial second opinion in an industry where risks are as high as the structures being demolished. One such consultant is Safetyform, a UK-based independent health, safety and fire consultancy. This company stepped onto a GD site not as a looming watchdog, but as a partner in safety.
It has maintained an extremely reassuring compliance score of 99.5% across the year, making GD a model of safety in demolition.” Construction Design Management (CDM) regulations are vital for managing health, safety, and welfare on construction sites. Safetyform audited GD’s compliance with these regulations as its basis, and the results are more than encouraging. Gavin Johnson, Operations Manager at Safetyform, praises the company’s commitment:
Currently, the construction sector’s embodied carbon footprint is massive. According to the report Decarbonising Construction: Building a Low-Carbon Future, recently launched by Shell, together with Deloitte, construction- related embodied carbon emissions reached 5.4 gigatonnes (Gt) of CO 2 in 2020. This represents 16 percent of all global CO 2 emissions. To put things into perspective, this equates to more than five times the emissions from a major sector like aviation.
The report, which draws on insights from nearly 100 senior executives and experts in construction and demolition across Europe, North America and Asia, underscores practical strategies to cut these emissions significantly. Key approaches include increasing the use of low-carbon materials, like alternative cements and low carbon concrete, and expanding low-carbon steel production. By adopting such materials and methods on a large scale, the sector can make substantial progress toward decarbonisation, reducing the carbon intensity of buildings and infrastructure over their entire lifecycle. It also emphasises that widespread adoption of these technologies will require both industry-wide demand and supportive regulatory frameworks. Through unified collaboration and systemic change, the industry can accelerate a shift to a more sustainable, low-carbon future, contributing meaningfully to global climate goals.
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16% Carbon emissions in the construction sector amount to: of all global CO 2 emissions
Not ‘them’ and ‘us’ – just ‘us’ Far from viewing Safetyform as an adversary, GD welcomes the extra pair of eyes. “Having third party auditors such as Safetyform on board is like having a co- pilot in safety; it’s an alliance we value deeply in our ongoing pursuit of safety perfection . ”
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Re:Generation Edition 03
Digitisation across the Circular Economy: Enabling the Supply Chain to Reuse Materials” Panel with Morgan Lewis – Material Index, Emily Samoluk – British Land, George Stainton – General Demolition, Roseanna Hart – Cast Group. “
General Demolition’s Nick Grigoras, Head of Recycling Facility in Hersham discusses. Circular economy in action, as seen at Footprint+ 2025
Showcasing Innovation in Circular Demolition at Footprint+ 2025 At General Demolition, we are proud to be at the forefront of
From steel and copper to reclaimed wood and bricks, if it can be upcycled, the sector has it on its radar. Construction developers have been working hard to ingrain recycled construction raw materials in their projects, capitalising on their sustainability and cost benefits. While reusing certain materials can be a practical and cost-effective solution, the push for holistic recycling still presents significant challenges. The issue is that while there is a very clear market and known value for stripped out metal, say, the same can’t be said for things like doors and windows. With research finding that annual construction waste is likely to reach 2.2 billion tons globally by 2025, firms must take their reuse strategies back to basics and reimagine successful recycling strategies to construct real change. With so much waste to reduce, is finding an effective solution likely to be easy? Perhaps not quite. In order for reuse to become mainstream, a number of factors need to come into alignment. Arguably the biggest one is for reused componentry to become fashionable among the users of buildings.This has happened in the second-hand clothing (or pre-loved as its online champion Vinted calls it), and it is already happening with building materials, in fact, it’s already fairly common place in countries such as Sweden.
Not one to miss out on a trend, the UK has also started to embrace the circular economy, tapping into the successes of its European friends and increasing its focus on reusing and recycling building materials. The Mayor of London is encouraging developers to consider the most appropriate circular strategy or strategies to adopt at an early stage, and for good reason. 1 The greater acceptance of clearly second life components in new build projects will make it easier for clients and specifiers to make a virtue of reusing components in their own developments. And without this all-important consumer/occupier buy-in, the circular economy will struggle to move from aspiration to reality. Despite Vinted sellers becoming ever more optimistic, uploading anything and everything they find in the back of their wardrobe to the app, it is important that the construction sector is realistic about what can practically be given a second life. It’s easy to get carried away with the idea of 100% reuse, but some componentry simply can’t be given a second life. But that is a minor point, the truth is that we can do a lot more. In London alone, the sector uses 400 million tonnes of materials each year, accounting for 54% of the city’s total waste. 1 This presents a significant opportunity for improvement.
embracing circular economy principles, particularly the reuse and recovery of materials across our projects. A key part of this commitment involves close collaboration with trailblazing platforms like Material Index, who are helping us identify, catalogue, and redistribute high-value materials from the built environment. This mission was brought to life at Footprint+ 2025, where our Director, George Stainton, joined a packed panel discussion titled: “Digitisation across the Circular Economy: Enabling the Supply Chain to Reuse Materials.” George spoke alongside industry leaders from Material Index, British Land, and Cast Group, unpacking the digital solutions driving real-world reuse and recovery efforts. The session played to a full house, underscoring the growing momentum behind sustainable demolition and the urgent need for scalable solutions that reconnect the demolition and construction supply chain. From digitised material inventories to reuse marketplaces, the panel illustrated how we’re going beyond best practice, pushing innovation to reduce carbon, landfill, and material waste. We remain committed to challenging the status quo and accelerating sustainable transformation across the sector.
Reduce, reuse, recycle.
General Demolition brought this shift to life at Footprint+ 2025, the UK’s leading property event for a zero-carbon future. As part of the event’s circular economy programme, the team showcased how early planning, digital tools, and collaboration across the supply chain are enabling more materials to be retained, repurposed, and redeployed, demonstrating the practical application of circular principles on live demolition sites. The circular economy If there’s one thing the demolition sector knows, it’s the value of repurposing materials. As stated in the Mayor of London’s Design for a Circular Economy, it is vital that the industry “make[s] sure that London grows in a way which is both inclusive and sustainable ” and fosters a “Good Growth ” strategy. 1 Embedded in this action plan is re-thinking the way
A trio of principles that remind us of the importance of sustainable practices and their application across all areas of life, including demolition, to minimise environmental impact. While the usage of the three Rs mantra dates back to the 1970s, recycling in particular didn’t gain widespread traction in the UK until much later. Legislative updates allowed recycling materials to become thoroughly mainstream and this is a trend that is increasingly seen in the demolition sector.
buildings are designed and resources are consumed.
In conclusion, there are a lot of things in modern demolition and strip-out projects that are worthy of a second life. It isn’t about cutting corners, it’s reinventing through repurposing.
References:
1. https://www.london.gov.uk/sites/default/files/ design–for–a–circular–economy–web–1.pdf
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Chemistry lesson It’s not quite so simple as smashing all the glass in a project and putting it into a bag for Saint-Gobain to collect. Glass is very sensitive to contamination, with things like nickel being especially troublesome. Because of this Richard Calcutt, Saint-Gobain’s technical project manager, did a full inspection of 21 Glasshouse Street, and produced a report to say what glass could be recycled (e.g. plate, toughened, laminate), and what couldn’t. (e.g. fire rated glass, or anything with borosilicate in.) He also advised on safe ways of breaking up the glass, and the importance of using nickel-free cutting blades – and the vital importance of segregating each type of glass into its own custom one-tonne cullet collection bag. If Saint-Gobain detects even a small number of contaminants in a one tonne bag – the whole lot is rejected.
A cracking performance
General Demolition’s smashing idea at 21 Glasshouse Street
But Richard needn’t have worried, as the GD demolition team warmly embraced the concept and carefully reduced the glass sheets of the project’s balustrading and office partitioning to manageable sizes, segregated it all into appropriate bags – and then Saint-Gobain Glass’ specialist transport team collected it and took it to the company’s multi-million pound purpose- built cullet processing plant in Eggborough in Yorkshire. There’s a proactive energy within the General Demolition team,” said Richard. “Its collaborative spirit shone throughout the process, as the team
Worth the pane? What are the economics you ask? Does recycling glass pay? Of course, like all new ventures, both General Demolition and Saint-Gobain are starting small and learning as we go along. But this at 21 Glasshouse Street has been a solid success, and will be followed by others. In fact, it’s not hard to imagine that carefully recycling glass will become standard practice on all sites in the not-too- distant future.
Most of the glass coming out of demolition projects could be recycled into new glass – so why don’t we? Well General Demolition now does, thanks to its cooperation with glass giant Saint-Gobain.
eagerly learned and adapted to carefully
Did you know that almost a quarter of a million tonnes of glass goes into landfill every year? Or that nearly all of it could be reused in the manufacture of new glass?
segregating and bagging the various types of glass.”
While society gets more focused on improving our carbon footprint, not recycling end-of-life glass from demolition sites seems like a glass- half-empty type of story. Especially when you think that for every one tonne of cullet (smashed up glass) used, 1.2 tonnes of raw materials are saved, 30% less energy used, and 700 kg of CO 2 saved. Glass forever Luckily, there might be a less shattering ending to this story, in that General Demolition, in cooperation with international glass giant Saint-Gobain, recently completed a successful glass recycling project – at the appropriately named 21 Glasshouse Street project in Soho.
And in the process managed to send an incredible 36 tonnes of toughened, laminated and secondary glass for recycling.
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We place sustainable practices at the core of our activities,” said George Stainton, Managing Director at General Demolition. “We view the materials on our sites not as waste products, but as opportunities to contribute to the circular economy.
Saint-Gobain is actively looking to boost the proportion of cullet it blends into the manufacture of its new glass – and has set itself the ambitious target of using 50% cullet by 2030. In theory it could use 100% cullet – but getting its hands on cullet is the problem – and where General Demolition comes in. The demolition industry is used to recycling the raw materials of buildings, such as steel, wood and concrete – so why not glass?
Partnering with Saint-Gobain Glass and the Glass Forever Programme was a natural extension of our work.”
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Re:Generation Edition 03
As electric machines grow in popularity, economies of scale will kick in and prices for the components that make them up will fall fast and far.
3. Carbon credits and offsets
4. ESG goals
5. They are going to get better
Carbon credits allow companies to emit a ton of CO 2 , which can be balanced by carbon offsets created when businesses remove CO 2 from the atmosphere. This system helps companies manage their carbon footprints, turning environmental responsibility into an operational asset.
Organisations increasingly pursue Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) goals. Using electric machinery can boost a company’s public relations and compliance with ESG standards, reducing the risk of reputation damage or fines.
Electric machinery is evolving rapidly.
Future models will feature higher voltages for efficient power use and faster charging, overcoming current limitations. As popularity grows, costs will decrease due to economies of scale, further enhanced by technological advances like electric actuators.
5 reasons why demolition should switch to electric
Electrification of construction machinery is not new, but after a slow start it merits gaining traction in demolition.
General Demolition appoints Charlotte Naish as Business & HR Director
General Demolition has promoted Charlotte Naish to become its new Business & HR Director. Charlotte, who has been with the company for five years, brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to her new role.
Okay, so electric construction machines are not winning any prizes in the popularity stakes. High cost, range anxiety (an inability to last a whole shift when heavy trenching, say) and the need for a new way-of-working are but three of the factors holding back their take up. But despite this, electric machines’ potential is evident and its benefits are clear. Electric’s long-term place in demolition is no longer up for debate. Make no mistake, electric machines will get better and cheaper – and the machines they power will grow in size, up from the compact machine we see today. Here are the five main reasons why the demolition sector should take electric seriously.
Wearing most of the hats – except the hard hat.” “ In her new capacity as Business & HR Director Charlotte will spearhead initiatives aimed at enhancing internal processes and procedures, as well as fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the company. Charlotte’s career at General Demolition began in 2019 when she joined as an office manager. Since then, she has exhibited versatility and adaptability, navigating through various responsibilities and challenges — a feat she humorously describes as: Her focus lies not only on business development but also on cultivating a cohesive and growth-oriented environment.
General Demolition’s decision to elevate Charlotte to a senior management position highlights the company’s commitment to nurturing talent from within. Charlotte’s appointment reflects her contribution to the company’s success, as well as her ability to drive positive change. Commenting on the appointment General Demolition’s Company Director Peter Flanagan said: “Charlotte’s promotion is a reflection of her hard work and commitment to our company’s values. We believe her strategic vision and leadership skills will be instrumental in driving General Demolition’s continued growth.” Charlotte’s appointment is also a step forward in General Demolition’s efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity within the industry.
1. Lower operating costs
2. Lower maintenance costs
Electric machinery can significantly cut fuel costs as charging a battery is much cheaper than diesel. Electric machines generally offer four to eight hours of runtime with an eight-hour recharge. Unlike diesel engines, they don’t idle, which reduces unnecessary energy use, consequently enhancing operational efficiency.
Electric machinery requires less maintenance than diesel engines, as it has fewer friction-generating components that are commonly subject to failure. They don’t need oil, water, or filter changes, making them simpler and reducing total ownership costs despite higher initial prices.
As she assumes her new role, Charlotte emphasises the importance of creating an environment where every individual’s voice is heard and valued. Charlotte’s story is a shining example of General Demolition’s ethos of empowering its people to thrive and make a meaningful impact.
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007 gave arch enemy ‘Oddjob’ a shocking time in the Bank’s underground vault in Goldfinger.
Top hat housing
The building is still full of quirks. Like the powerful hydraulic bullion lift and the wall of small hardwood boxes with individual locks and keys near the entrance – that turned out to be for storing the directors’ bowler and top hats! The giant safe in the basement not only once stored the nation’s gold reserves when the Bank of England was being renovated – it also starred alongside Sean Connery as James Bond in 007 classic film Goldfinger.
Largely forgotten today, but for a while the Midland Bank was the largest bank in the world. As befits its grand status, it needed a global headquarters of similar stature. So, in 1924 the bank’s chairman called in his friend, Sir Edwyn Lutyens – possibly Britain’s greatest ever architect (and designer of The Cenotaph) – to create it. Demolition throwback: Midland Bank HQ / The Ned
It may no longer be the grand HQ of the world’s largest bank, but a lot of money still changes hands in The Ned today. The intricately decorated chairs still seat thousands of business professionals each week, and continue to enjoy endless trusty small talk about the unpredictable British weather. It seems its heyday never truly ended.
When General Demolition stripped out the Midland Bank’s HQ at 27 Poultry it discovered James Bond, the nation’s gold reserves – and boxes to store top hats. The six-storey Edwardian masterpiece, at 27-35 Poultry and 5 Prince’s Street, EC2, is considered Lutyens’ best corporate design and clearly intended as an expression of commercial confidence.
But like high street bank buildings the length of the country, it’s days as a bank were numbered. In 1992 it was vacated and stood empty for a decade until new investors arrived, with grand plans to convert the huge Grade 1 listed building into bars, restaurants, swimming pools, clubs, gym, five-star hotel – even its own boxing ring. From cashiers to waiters Today it is The Ned – named after Sir Edwyn himself, who was known to his friends and family as Ned. There was plenty of modern partitioning, floors, walls, ceilings and M&E that needed to come out, but it was far from a standard strip out,” remembers GD Chairman Colin McLoughlin.
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Being Grade 1 listed meant we treated everything with kid gloves. We had to preserve the black-and- white checkerboard floor in the main bank hall, the acres of marble and much of the hardwood panelling. There were tapestries in the directors’ offices we had to maintain the temperature and humidity of.” The building was really a collection of interconnecting buildings – which together created a confusing warren of stairs, corridors and dead ends, it was easy to get lost. It felt as though there were endless rooms to uncover within the building,” remembers Colin “, but through careful planning, even a structure of this size and complexity was systematically addressed and managed.”
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